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January 15, 2007

New Bill may make it a crime to listen to music while driving.

New Bill may make it a crime to listen to music while driving.

Under Colorado House Bill 1006, if a driver is "knowingly distracted" (willfully diverting attention from driving) by anything when committing a "moving traffic violation" (e.g., speeding, improper lane change, etc.), then the "applicable penalties and surcharges" (ticket) will be DOUBLED!

Introduced by Colorado District 12 Representative Paul Weissmann (D), HB 1006 actually lists several specific activities that an officer may cite as having caused a driver to become "knowingly distracted" - including use of cell phones (including those with a headphone or headset), digital music players (e.g., CD Players, iPods), grooming, eating and drinking. If this bill passes, willtraffic cops be staking out fast food restaurants with drive thru windows?

LPCO chairman Travis Nicks say's, "When will our elected officials understand that the people of Colorado don't need to be told when and where they can listen to music or eat a Big Mac. The unintended consequences from this type of legislation divert crucial law enforcement resources from tracking down real criminals to increasing revenue for their jurisdiction ." Mr. Nicks will beappearing on the "Uncle Nasty" radio show on KBPI ( 106.7 FM) Wednesday afternoon to discuss HB 1006.

1 Comment

This is one of the worst ideas I've heard of. Stupid people driving are more dangerous than someone listenintg to the radio. Are we going to make driving stupid illegal? Yes, a phone conversation is distracting and most people I know either turn off their phones while driving or don't answer. Common sense is not instilled by being told what to do. It happens by learning for yourself. Every body has touched a stove burner. They learn not to touch hot things.
If you can't talk and drive, hang up and drive.